The international conference “The Year 1945 in a Global Context” has officially begun at the Liechtenstein Palace in Prague. Bringing together leading historians, memory scholars, cultural institutions and policymakers, the event explores the global significance and complex legacy of the year 1945. The European Network Remembrance and Solidarity (ENRS) is represented by Deputy Head Iga Raczyńska, who delivered one of the opening speeches.
The international conference “The Year 1945 in a Global Context” opened today in Prague, launching three days of discussions devoted to the political, social, and cultural consequences of the end of the Second World War. The event brings together renowned experts from Europe and beyond to examine how 1945 reshaped the moral and geopolitical landscape of the 20th century.
ENRS is honoured to be a partner of this significant initiative. The organisation is represented by Iga Raczyńska, Deputy Head, who addressed participants during the opening session. In her speech, she outlined the mission of the European Network Remembrance and Solidarity, emphasising its commitment to fostering cross-border dialogue, supporting historical research and education, and deepening public understanding of Europe’s difficult past.
Raczyńska also pointed to the diverse ways in which 1945 is remembered across societies. For some communities, it marks the moment of liberation from occupation; for others, it represents the beginning of a new period of domination. This diversity, she noted, calls for a nuanced and comparative approach — one that transcends national perspectives and embraces a broader global context.
A key element of her address was the recognition of the Czech Republic’s growing role within ENRS, following its accession as a full member state earlier this year. This step marks the beginning of a more dynamic and long-term cooperation, further strengthened by joint initiatives such as this conference and the educational programme Freedom of Speech Beyond Borders, held in Prague in 2025.
The event runs from 18 to 20 November 2025 at the Liechtenstein Palace in Prague.
We extend our sincere thanks to our partners from the Institute for the Study of Totalitarian Regimes (ÚSTR) for their dedicated work in preparing the conference. We wish all speakers, guests and participants inspiring discussions, new perspectives and fruitful collaboration.
The conference is organised by Institute for the Study of Totalitarian Regimes (ÚSTR) with partnership of the ENRS.
Read the full programme here